Do I need a Lawyer? Chicago

[Mario Morales]

I recently purchased a mix use property, 1st floor commercial, 2nd & 3rd residential. I am fixing up the 3rd floor and we need to fix the electrical and some plumbing. I need to get to the electrical main panel in his unit as well as shut off the water while the repairs get done. Unfortunately, the commercial tenant's office opens only during tax season. I emailed him, he is an attorney, I called and left a voicemail asking for his help in getting access and I would compensate the employee for their time. He stood me up once before, for an inspection. The lease says nothing of the key, as I inherited the tenant with 4 years left on the lease. I am going to go, out of my way to his office to talk to him. He has a medeco lock on his door. What can I do if he is putting the lively hood of my apartment at risk. 

[Henry Lazerow]

You can enter a unit for required maintenance without permission. Tell him it needs repair and just go do it 48 hours later. If you have to drill the lock and put in a new lock so be it.